The Royal Hideaway is a member of exclusive hospitality consortium Leading Hotels of the World, and as such is one of the most luxurious properties in the area. It features upscale rooms with high-end amenities, a full-service spa with great treatments, several pools, and the best food around. The beautiful grounds, overall sophisticated vibe, adults-only policy, and beautiful beachfront location a short drive from shopping on Playa’s Fifth Avenue make it one of the most attractive options for couples in Playacar.

The Grand Velas -- set on over 80 acres of mangroves that meet a postcard-perfect beach of white sand and turquoise waters -- is one of Riviera Maya’s most sophisticated properties. It features 491 top-notch suites spread out in three different buildings (two family-friendly, one adults-only), all with their own stunning pool complexes, gyms, and restaurants. The property is so huge guests will need to take a three-minute shuttle ride from the farthest building to the beach, but the hotel’s spotless service, outstanding food, luxurious spa, and wonderful amenities make it a great pick for discerning (and well-heeled) travelers.

As one might expect from the ultra-luxurious Banyan Tree brand, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba is one of Playa del Carmen's most sought after resorts. All of the 164 villas feature sleek Asian-inspired decor and Mexican textiles -- as well as walk-in showers, plunge pools, walled-in grass lawns, patios with hammocks, outdoor bathtubs, and fully stocked bars. The grounds, white-sand beach, and lagoon-like pool blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature. When you consider the high-end spa, plethora of outdoor activities -- such as golf, snorkeling, and eco tours -- and the fantastic dining, it's very hard to find anything wrong with this property. Only the Rosewood Mayakoba can compare, but the rooms are arguably a little nicer here -- though Rosewood has the superior spa.

Rosewood Mayakoba is a gorgeous, peaceful retreat within the resort community of Playa Del Carmen, set on a mile-long stretch of beach. Though it features an extensive children's program, the resort largely attracts couples with its serene atmosphere, upscale restaurants, and spa. The 128 suites feature attractive contemporary decor -- picture clean lines, white walls, and rich woods -- as well as high-tech amenities and private outdoor plunge pools. They have an open-air vibe, with many floor-to-ceiling windows, and the overwater lagoon suites have swim-up access. Plus, suites include freebies such as Wi-Fi, fresh fruit, and bottled water. Seaweed debris along the beach keeps the Rosewood from being flawless (although they diligently attempt to keep it clean by sending staffers to rake it away), but otherwise this hotel is top-notch -- for guests willing to pay top dollar. Some may prefer the rooms at the Banyan Tree, but the spa is nicer here.

Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Esmeralda is one of the best family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts on the Yucatan Peninsula. This luxury property is located directly on the Caribbean and includes access to a white sand beach. The swimming pool, with a pirate ship playground and a swim-up bar, makes it a popular spot among families and partiers. Even the most affordable rooms here include marble floors and sensory soaking tubs. Upgrading often means swim-up pools and/or kitchenettes. Restaurant and bar options include everything from a show cooking buffet, to Argentinian-style steaks, to burritos, to sushi. Vacationers that go all-out for the Family Concierge level rooms get access to private pools, a tricked out club lounge, and expedited service -- but those who don't book it have reported feeling like second-class citizens. Couples can be happy here, but should check rates next door at the all-inclusive, adults-only Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Perla.

This adults-only, luxury all-inclusive property with 507 rooms appeals to both 20- and 30-something couples. A particular draw of this resort is its proximity to the nightlife of downtown Playa del Carmen, especially bustling 5th Avenue, with the party-oriented will appreciate. But the gorgeous stretch of beach and the sophisticated rooms with two-person jetted tubs means romantic-minded couples will be pleased here as well. The range of features is, unsurprisingly, extensive, including seven restaurants and seven bars, an Olympic-sized pool, a wedding center, a spa, and daily entertainment.

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya by BlueBay is an excellent option for couples looking for a more intimate and luxurious all-inclusive option outside of the hustle of Cancun. The four-and-a-half pearl property is spread out over gorgeous grounds that are partially manicured and artistic and partially jungle-like and wild so the overall ambiance is natural and feels almost isolated. No kids allowed means the two swimming pools, sandy beach, and plethora of restaurants are generally quiet and relaxing. Adult-friendly facilities include a sleek spa (free access to use the steam room and pool), cigar lounge, and one of the best equipped gyms in Mexico. Suites and casitas come standard with private outdoor bathtubs and minibars stocked with free drinks.

Located in central Playa del Carmen, the 57-apartment El Taj Oceanfront & Beachside Condos Hotel is really two adjacent luxury properties in one, sharing facilities and amenities. Two blocks from shopping mecca Fifth Avenue, El Taj is rightly considered one of the area’s best hotels, with a private beach and beach club, a spa, a large, modern gym, and several excellent restaurants, as well as gorgeous rooms, all with private balconies and full kitchens, and some with rooftop decks and private hot tubs. It's worth being aware, however, that many of the hotel's facilities (like the restaurants and gym) are a few minutes away from the hotel.

Few properties in Riviera Maya offer the level of privacy the Fairmont Mayakoba does. The 401 contemporary rooms are set amid tropical forests and lagoons, and feature modern amenities, upscale bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers and separate jetted tubs, and nice views, either of the lagoons, the forests, or the ocean. Granted, sprawling grounds mean guests will need a golf cart or one of the BMW bikes the hotels provides to move around. Property highlights include a high-end spa, a number of dining options, five attractive pools -- including a 10,000 square-foot main pool, a kiddy pool, and an adults-only pool -- and a great location on a white-sand beach a few minutes north of Playa del Carmen. However, it’s not an all-inclusive resort and there are a few pesky fees.

The 291-room luxury Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Rooms are of moderate size, with elegant decor that includes four-poster canopy beds, furnished balconies or terraces, and jetted tubs. Guests at this outpost of the Secrets chain are granted Preferred status, with additional amenities and privileges that include premium liquor, concierge service in rooms, on the beach, and by the pool, free Wi-Fi, and free international calls. The property is stylish and upscale and resembles a Mediterranean villa, with lots of terraces, wrought iron, and marble. The spa has a full menu of treatments, including fish pedicures. On-site activities include water sports, games, language lessons, and beer tastings. The location in between two major cities makes it convenient for guests with a car, but there's nothing of interest within walking-distance.